Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Day one of my next 27 months -

After a year of preparation and anticipation I finally met the other 42 individuals going to Kenya. An approximate breakdown is 9 Kenyan sign languague teachers, 13 math/science educators and the rest part of the small enterprise development sector. Only 4 of the 43 appeared to be 50+ with many of the others fresh out of college, and under 30. It appears to be a good group of individuals, very diverse and dedicated to the PC service. Our orientation was very general in nature, knowing we will receive detailed instructions once we arrive in Kenay. We take a bus from Philly to JFK tomorrow and leave at 6:15 pm for Amsterdam, with a 2.5 hour layover and then on to Nairobi. My possessions can be found in a suitcase, oversized back pack, carry on and small back pack. I hope I have all I need, and not too much of what I don't. I did some last minute shopping in Denver for mud boots (rainy season) and a new bike helment, which of course meant I had to reconfigure my suitcases!!!! Departure is finally here and I cannot believe I am finally a PC Trainee!!!! I had a great last week in CO with my children, their significant others, baby Lucy and Shannon's mom Diane from FL and her dad from MI. Leaving the kids was difficult to say the least, but I look forward to their visits to Kenya. Just to let you all know, things are well - I am excited and of course frightened to some degree - but I know this is something I have to do in this life time. Take care all of you - write when possible - and do stay in touch. I shall not miss my house, my car, my furniture or even Lincoln, but I shall miss all of you. Kwa heri - Pat

6 comments:

Katie said...

Take Care Mom! May you reach your new home safely. Love, Katie.

Betsy said...

Be flexible... take care of yourself and have enjoy the adventure!!!

Love, Betsy

Lou said...

I'm so excited for you! Take Care Lou

Shannon said...

Godspeed, hang on and enjoy the ride. We miss you!

Eileen Left said...

Pat, do you know how many times I have picked up the phone to call you since you left? It's a steep learning curve, I guess. Either that or I'm just a slow learner! Of course I have had to change my password 3 times so far because I can't remember it. I guess that says something too.

I am sending the best zenful thoughts your way that I can muster!

Love You,
Beck
(Eileen Left)

Meg said...

I can't wait to hear all about your adventures! Take Care!!!

Meg

My Great Family

My Great Family
Katie, Shannon, Lucy, Pat, Russ, Betsy

Contact Information

My email address is:    p_novak@hotmail.com

My snail mail address will be:
Pat Novak, PCV
        PO Box 539
        Tala   90131
  Kenya